Posted on

Why Can Eye Problems Go Undetected?

eye hospital

Eye care refers to the healthcare and management of eyes, including the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and disorders. It involves regular eye exams, screenings and treatments to maintain healthy eyes and vision. Despite the importance of eye care, many people neglect their eye health. This can lead to eye problems that could have been prevented or treated if caught early.

Here we discuss some of the reasons why eye problems can go undetected:

1. Glaucoma and early dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Some eye conditions may not produce noticeable symptoms in their early stages, such as early stages of glaucoma and early dry age-related macular degeneration. Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” as the damage caused by the eye disease may not be noticeable soon. As the disease progresses, one starts noticing symptoms such as eye pain and blurred vision. Similarly, in the early stages of AMD, one may not notice any symptoms, and by the time symptoms appear, the disease may already be at an advanced stage. 

2. Lack of awareness: Some people may not be aware that their symptoms could be related to an eye problem and may not seek medical attention as a result. Some people may assume that the symptoms are simply a normal part of ageing and may not seek medical attention. It is important for individuals to be aware of any changes in their vision or eye symptoms, even if they think that they may be a normal part of ageing. Regular eye exams can help detect any potential problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and preserving vision.

3. Diabetes history: People suffering from diabetes are at a high risk of developing diabetic retinopathy which can cause vision loss if not treated early. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where uncontrolled blood sugar levels can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. In the early stages of the condition, there may be no noticeable symptoms or vision changes.

4. Lack of access: In some areas, mostly in rural areas, access to quality eye healthcare services can be difficult. Also, expensive eye healthcare can be another reason for people not seeking medical attention.

5. Lack of regular eye checkups: Not getting regular eye checkups can affect your eye health. As mentioned above, regular eye exams can help your eye doctor detect diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration in their early stages. Also, eye exams can also detect underlying health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

6. Underestimating the importance of eye health : Unformately, many people do not take their eye health seriously. This can be due to a lack of understanding of the importance of eye health or a belief that vision loss only affects older individuals.

Looking for a good eye hospital in West Bengal for eye exams? 

If you are looking for a good eye hospital in West Bengal for getting your eyes checked, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. Our team of doctors have years of experience and can detect a wide range of eye problems, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. We have a dedicated Diagnostic And Imaging Services. We offer a wide range of tests including:

  •  A-Scan Biometry
  • B-Scan
  • Keratometry
  • Specular Microscopy
  • Pachymetry/Cct
  • Gonioscopy 
  • Tonometry/At
  • Corneal Topography/Oculyzer
  • Digital Fundus Angiography
  • Indirect Ophthalmoscopy and more 

 

Posted on

Cornea Surgery Check these Useful Insights on Post-surgery Care

Cornea surgery

Cornea is the transparent layer of the eye that lets light reach the retina and lens, thus enabling vision. It also acts as a barrier against infections – cornea contains a number of protective mechanisms such as tear film, epithelial layer, and immune cells, which help to prevent infections from penetrating into the eye. 

The cornea can be damaged due to multiple reasons such as:

  • Trauma
  • Chemical injury
  • Infection
  • Dry
  • Prolonged or improper use of contact lenses
  • Genetic disorders
  • Age – related factors 

Cornea surgery or cornea transplant can be required, when the cornea is severely damaged and conservative treatments can not be used to treat it. Cornea surgeries are usually recommended for these conditions: 

  • Corneal scarring or clouding
  • Keratoconus
  • Refractive errors 
  • Pterygium
  • Fuchs’ dystrophy

Check this useful read on common corneal problems . 

Here we discuss some important factors to avoid doing after cornea surgery:

1. Rubbing or touching eyes: After cornea surgery, patients should avoid rubbing and touching their eyes because it can cause irritation and increase the risk of infection. Also, it will delay the healing process and cause further complications. If the eyes feel itchy or uncomfortable, they should use eye drops as prescribed by their surgeon. 

2. Wearing eye makeup: Eye makeup can cause irritation and even increase the risk of infection. It can also slow down the healing process and cause complications.

3. Do not wear contact lenses: After cornea surgery, patients should avoid wearing contact lenses for some days – as lenses can exert pressure on the eye and slow down the healing process. Also, patients should wear glasses to protect their eyes from dust and dirt during the recovery period.

4. Swimming:  Patients should avoid swimming after cornea surgery – as exposing their eyes to moisture can increase the risk of infection. 

5. Strenuous activities: After cornea surgery patients should avoid playing sports, gyming or lifting weights for a certain period of time. Strenuous activities can exert pressure on the eyes, increasing the risk of bleeding.

6. Exposing eyes to dust or smoke: After cornea surgery, patients should protect their eyes from dust and smoke as it can lead to irritation, infection and delay healing. 

7. Using non-prescribed medication: After cornea surgery, patients should not use non-prescribed eye drops and medicines as they can cause irritation, side effects and delayed healing. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and only use the eye drops or medication prescribed by them.

8. Driving: Until the follow up appointments are done, doctors will recommend patients to avoid driving for a certain period of time. Once the doctors give the green signal, patients can start driving again, but only short distances. Additionally, they should avoid driving at night or in the dark as it causes stress on the eyes. 

9. Ignoring symptoms: It is important to contact a doctor immediately if the patient experiences any symptoms such as redness, pain, discharge, or decreased vision. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complications. 

Success of cornea surgery: Factors to note

There are multiple factors that determine the success of a cornea surgery such as:

  • The extent of damage
  • The treatment and surgical technique used
  • The expertise of the surgeon
  • Patient’s immunity to donor transplant, to name a few. 

Before surgery, patients need to discuss the success rate of their eye surgery with their eye surgeon. The long- term success rates of a cornea transplant can vary widely. Also, it is important to note that the patient’s vision is usually blurred post surgery and will gradually improve over time. 

Looking for for more information on cornea surgery and cornea surgery types

To know more information, you can visit our resource section on cornea. We have highly-skilled eye surgeons who use the latest technology to ensure a successful and efficient procedure. If your family member is suffering from a corneal disease or has a damaged cornea, schedule a consultation today. To find the nearest branch to book an appointment, visit our contact us page. 

Posted on

Signs of a Cornea Problem

cataract surgery
The cornea is the front part of the eye that plays a crucial role in vision.  It refracts, or bends light as it enters the eye to focus it on the retina. It also protects the eyes from dust, wind and foreign particles.   Given the important role that the cornea plays, it is important to ensure that it is healthy. Here are some signs of a cornea problem that you should know about so that you can seek medical assistance without delay:

Pain or discomfort:

Pain or discomfort in or around the eye should not be ignored as it is usually a sign of a cornea problem. It can range from mild, uncomfortable feelings, including excessive tearing, dryness, or feeling like something is stuck in the eye. 

Blurred vision:

As the cornea is responsible for the eye’s focusing power, any damage to the cornea can result in blurred vision. If you are experiencing blurred vision while reading or driving, you must see an eye doctor immediately.

Redness:

Redness in the eye can indicate an issue with the cornea. Infection, inflammation, or even a foreign object stuck in the eye can be a sign of an infection or other complications. If left untreated, a cornea problem can worsen. 

Sensitivity to light:

A damaged cornea can make the eye more sensitive to light. If you are experiencing discomfort because of bright lights, you should see an eye doctor to get to the root cause of the problem. 

Discharge:

If you wake up with a crusty eye and discharge, it is important to pay attention as it could be more than just an irritated eye. In fact, these symptoms can indicate a serious problem with the cornea that requires medical attention. Corneal infection or inflammation might cause these signs and symptoms, which could lead to a potentially dangerous corneal ulcer if untreated.

Difficulty with contact lenses:

The cornea holds the contact lens in place.  If your contact lenses are not fitting well or causing discomfort suddenly, you must see an eye doctor.  It could be a sign of an underlying cornea problem. 

Common cornea problems are::

  • Corneal abrasions: A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of the cornea. This can be caused by foreign particles in the eye or wearing wrong-size of contact lenses. 
  • Corneal dystrophies: Corneal dystrophies are a group of inherited disorders that affect the cornea. 
  • Keratoconus: It is a condition in which the cornea bulges, leading to blurred vision and light sensitivity. 
  • Fuch’s dystrophy: Fuch’s dystrophy is a condition in which the cells that produce the innermost layer of the cornea die. This causes the cornea to swell. 

When is cornea surgery needed? 

A cornea transplant is needed to repair or replace a damaged cornea. The transplant is also done to alleviate pain or other symptoms caused by cornea diseases. 

Are you looking for more information on cornea surgery?

To know more on  cornea surgery types such as corneal transplantation, ocular surface and reconstructive surgery, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. For more information contact us  .

Posted on

What to expect at your first retina appointment?


If you are seeing a retinal specialist for the first time, you may not know what to expect. The best way to get the most out of your retinal consultation is to come prepared. A retina specialist specialises in the treatment of conditions and diseases affecting the retina. Some of the common diseases treated by a retina specialist are:

  • Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Retinal detachment
  • Macular hole/pucker

As a leading eye hospital in West Bengal, we share with you useful insights on what you can expect at your first retina appointment:

1. A retina exam is more extensive than a routine eye exam: 

A retinal eye exam is more comprehensive than a routine eye exam.  Your initial appointment with a retina specialist may take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the diagnostic tests recommended.

2. Questions you will be asked 

Just like any other eye exam, you will be asked about:

  •  Medical history 
  •  Symptoms you are experiencing
  • Any medications that you are taking3. Tests that are done before the appointment: 

Some of the common tests that will be done include: 

  • Pupil dilation test: This test is performed to make the pupils large so that the retinal specialist can examine the optic nerve and retina. 

While your eyes are dilated, the retinal specialist may order specialised tests such as: 

  • Optical Coherence Tomography or OCT
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Fundus Photography
  • Fundus Autofluorescence Imaging 

    4. What to bring to your appointment with a retina specialist:

When you visit a retina specialist for an appointment, it is important to bring along  important documents. 

  • If you have had any major surgery, bring the discharge summary and other hospital documents.
  • It is also helpful to bring documents that has information about your family’s medical history.
  • In addition, be sure to bring along the name and contact information of the referring doctor, as well as the reason for referral.
  • Bring a complete list of all medications you are currently taking. 

    5. How to prepare for a retinal eye exam? 

Here are a few things you can do to prepare for a retinal exam: 

  • It’s important to bring your glasses or contact lenses with you to your eye doctor appointment. This will help the retina specialist get an accurate measure of your prescription.
  • After pupil dilation, you will not be able to drive back home as your vision will be blurry.  Have someone to drive you home.
  • Bring along a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare when you are heading back home. 

    6. What will happen during the exam? 

By shining a light into your eye, the retina specialist can get a clear view of the back of the eye. This allows your retina specialist to look for any signs of damage or disease. The retina specialist uses one or more of these techniques for viewing your eye condition:

  • Direct examination: The direct examination is performed with an ophthalmoscope, which allows the doctor to shine a beam of light through the pupil to get a clear view of the back of the eye.
  • Indirect examination: The indirect examination, also known as indirect ophthalmoscopy, uses a condensing lens and a bright light to provide a more detailed look at the retina and other structures inside the eye.
  • Slit-lamp exam: A slit-lamp exam is often performed to get an even closer look at the back of the eye. This exam uses a special lens and a beam of light to provide a clear, three-dimensional view of the eye. 

Note: Usually, the retinal exam takes about 10 minutes, but you will be in the eye hospital for hours. It is because pupil dilation needs some time.

Looking for a retina specialist? 

If you live in West Bengal and are looking for a “retina specialist near me” online, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have some of the best retina specialists who can help you choose the right treatment option. Call us to book an appointment at the nearest branch.

Posted on

FAQs on Diabetic Macular Edema

eye hospital
If you suffer from diabetes, you need to keep your blood sugar levels under control. High blood sugar can lead to a host of other problems, including eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.  Diabetic macular edema is one of the most serious eye conditions. This condition occurs when the blood vessels in the eye leak fluids, causing the macula (the centre of the retina) to swell. If left untreated, it can lead to loss of vision. As a reputed eye hospital in West Bengal, we have curated some FAQs and their answers on diabetic macular edema that you might find useful:

Question: 1 What is diabetic macular edema?

Diabetic macular edema is one of the leading causes of vision loss in diabetic people. It is a diabetes complication caused by the accumulation of fluid in the macula of the eye, which is a small area near the centre of the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye and the macula is responsible for the sharp vision. When fluid builds up in the macula, it causes the area to swell, which can distort vision. 

Question: 2 How does diabetes lead to macular edema?

When blood sugar levels are high, it can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes. This can lead to a condition called diabetic retinopathy, in which the vessels leak. This can cause the retina to swell, resulting in reduced vision. In severe cases, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness. 

When fluid seeps into the retina, it can cause diabetic macular edema. The leaking makes the retina swell, affecting the vision. 

Question: 3 What can cause macular edema besides diabetes?

Some causes of macular edema include :

    • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): It is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. In a certain type of AMD,, abnormal blood vessels in the macula leak fluid into the retina causing swelling in the macula.
    • Retinitis pigmentosa (RP): It is a genetic disease that also causes swelling in the macula.
    • Uveitis: It is inflammation in the eye that happens when the immune system attacks the tissue of the eye.
    • Blocked veins in the retina: It can cause leakage into the macula and subsequent swelling.
    • Eye surgery: People who had surgery to treat another eye condition including cataracts, may also be at risk for developing macular edema.

 

  • Certain medicines: Some medicines, like medicines to treat glaucoma, can cause macular edema as a side effect.

Question: 4 Are diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema same?

Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema are diabetic-related vision conditions but the two are different. Here are some differences between those two:

  • Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages the retina. It is a progressive condition that typically affects both eyes and it can eventually lead to blindness. If you have diabetes, it’s important to monitor your eye health care and see an ophthalmologist regularly to catch any signs of retinopathy early.
  • Diabetic macular edema: Diabetic macular edema is a complication of diabetic retinopathy that affects the macula.   It occurs when the macula swells. This can lead to blurred vision. While there is no cure for diabetic macular edema , early diagnosis and treatment can help slow its progression and prevent loss of vision. 

Question: 5 How do you know if you have diabetic macular edema?

Diabetic macular edema can cause symptoms such as:

  • Double vision
  • Blurry or wavy vision
  • Floaters and blind spots
  • Faded, less vibrant colours
  • Partial or total vision loss

Question: 6 How do you get rid of diabetic macular edema?

diabetic macular edema can be effectively treated with anti-VEGF injections. These injections work by stopping the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that promotes the growth of blood vessels. By reducing leakage from damaged blood vessels and slowing the progression of diabetic macular edema, anti-VEGF injections can help preserve vision.

Question: 7 How long does it take to cure macular edema?

It takes approximately one to four months to  treat diabetic macular edema. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the condition. 

Question: 8 Can you have macular edema without retinopathy?

No, you cannot have diabetic macular edema diabetic retinopathy. 

Question: 9 Which is the best eye hospital for diabetic retinopathy treatment?

If you are looking for a reputed eye hospital in West Bengal, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have retinal specialists who can help diagnose and treat various diseases such as retinal tears, diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment. In addition to treatment for retinal diseases, we offer treatment for various eye problems such as glaucoma , cataracts , and corneal diseases. If you are experiencing any eye-related problems, book an online consultation or call us to book an appointment at your nearest branch. 

Posted on

FAQs on Laser photocoagulation

laser eye treatment
If you have been recommended to undergo laser photocoagulation, you are bound to have questions. Here we have curated a list of frequently asked questions and their answers on laser photocoagulation and the eye laser treatment cost that you will find useful: 

Question 1: What is laser photocoagulation used for?

Laser photocoagulation is laser eye treatment that is used to treat retinal conditions. The laser eye treatment is done to prevent the worsening of retinal disorders and reduce the risk of potential vision loss. 

Question 2: What does laser photocoagulation do?

This laser eye treatment  is used to seal off a tear or leaking blood vessels. It can also slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. The procedure cannot restore vision that is already lost, but it can reduce your risk of experiencing future vision loss.

Question 3: For what eye conditions is laser photocoagulation used? 

This laser eye treatment  is used to treat retinal conditions such as 

  • Retinal tears
  • Retinal detachment
  • Diabetic retinopathy 
  • Macular edema 
  • Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)

Question 4: Who performs laser photocoagulation? 

Retina specialists perform laser photocoagulation. They are ophthalmologists who specialise in diseases of the retina. This gives them special training to safely perform laser photocoagulation.

Question 5: Is retinal laser photocoagulation painful?

The laser eye treatment is performed under topical anaesthesia. This is done to reduce the pain. The procedure is relatively painless and you may just feel a mild pricking sensation during the surgery. The entire procedure takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the retinal disease being treated. 

Question 6: How long does laser photocoagulation take to heal?

Well, the recovery time varies from two to three weeks. The exact recovery time will vary from one person to another, depending on the age, type of retinal disorder and general health. 

Question 7: Is laser photocoagulation safe?

Yes, this laser eye treatment is both safe and effective in the treatment of retina disorders. However, just like any surgery, there are some associated risks involved. Talk to your retinal specialist about these before proceeding with surgery.

Question 8: Will I have pain?

You may have some discomfort around your treated eye. Your ophthalmologist is likely to prescribe your pain-relievers. However, you must contact your eye doctor in case of severe pain and discomfort.

Question 9: When can I wear contact lenses after laser photocoagulation?

Generally, you can wear your contact lenses once the redness has gone. This is usually within two to three days after the laser eye treatment.

Question 10: Can I drive home after laser photocoagulation? 

No, you cannot drive home the same after having the laser treatment done. You can drive the next day or when your ophthalmologist gives a go-ahead. However, if you are having vision problems, you should wait until you feel comfortable driving and your ophthalmologist says that it is safe for you to drive.

Question 11: When can I resume work after photocoagulation? 

You should take off work the day of your procedure. You will probably be able to return to work the following day. If your work is physical, you must ask your doctor when you can return to work.

Question 12: What can you not do after photocoagulation laser?

Here are some precautions you should take after laser eye treatment :

  • Don’t take a shower or wash your hair until the day after.
  • Don’t rub your eyes.
  • Use all eye drops, including artificial tears, that are prescribed by your doctor.
  • Wear the eye shield the doctor gave you while you sleep for the first week.
  • Keep tap water out of your eyes for at least a week.
  • Avoid swimming pools for at least 3 to 4 weeks.
  • No eye makeup for at least a week. 
  • No exercise for two days.
  • Avoid dusty environments. 
  • Avoid bright sunshine. Wear sunglasses on bright days.  
     
    Looking for laser eye treatment in Kolkata? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, have YAG laser for laser eye treatment. It is used in retinal, cataract and glaucoma therapy. It is optimal for photocoagulation, post-cataract treatments, laser trabeculoplasty and combined iridotomy. To know the eye laser treatment cost, book an appointment at your nearest branch

Posted on

Corneal Transplantation Rejection: Check these Useful Insights

cornea surgery
A corneal transplant is a surgery done to replace a damaged part of the cornea with tissue from a donor. The cornea is the transparent surface of the eye that allows light to enter the eye. A  corneal surgery can restore vision and reduce pain. It can also improve the appearance of a damaged cornea. However, just like any surgery, a cornea transplant involves some risks and possible complications. One such complication is corneal transplantation rejection. Here we share with you useful insights on corneal transplantation rejection:

1. Why is a corneal transplant done? 

A corneal transplant is done to correct eye problems such as 

  • Cornea scarring 
  • Corneal ulcers 
  • Keratoconus
  • Swelling of the cornea
  • Fuchs’ dystrophy 
  • Problems caused by an earlier eye surgery 
     
    2. What happens if cornea transplant is rejected?

Corneal transplant rejection is the most common cause of transplant failure once the surgery is done. The rejection happens when the immune system doesn’t accept the cornea.

3. When does the rejection occur? 

Rejection can occur a few weeks after a cornea transplant. However, it’s more common after several months. It can happen even years after the transplantation.

4. Symptoms of corneal transplantation rejection

Here are some common symptoms that the body has rejected the donated cornea:

  • Red eye
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Vision problems 
  • Eye pain

You should rush to the emergency ward of an eye hospital if you notice these symptoms  after a cornea surgery:

5. How is the cornea chosen? 

Corneal tissue used in the transplant comes from people who have died. Corneas are not used from people who died from unknown causes or from donors who had certain medical conditions such as AIDS and hepatitis. The donor cornea can be used only if it passes the screening test. However, unlike liver and kidney transplants, people needing cornea transplants don’t require tissue matching.

6. What are the different types of corneal transplant? 

Cornea surgery types include the following:

Endothelial keratoplasty: In this corneal surgery, the inner layer of the cornea is replaced with a healthy inner layer of a donor cornea. This is used for those suffering from Fuchs’ dystrophy. The risk of rejection in this case is lower than others as too much tissue is not used.

Anterior lamellar keratoplasty : In this corneal surgery, the outer layer of the cornea is replaced with a healthy outer layer of a donor cornea. This is mostly used in patients with keratoconus and scarring of the uppermost layers of the cornea.

Penetrating keratoplasty:  In this corneal surgery, the entire cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.

7. Why would a transplanted cornea be rejected?

A corneal transplant is considered rejected when the donated tissue doesn’t receive the blood supply. The immune system recognises that the tissue as foreign and rejects it.

8. Corneal transplantation rejection is reversible: 

Cornea transplant rejection is generally reversible. The problem can often be treated effectively with steroid eye drops.  However, the chances of successful treatment is better when you seek medical intervention early on. 

9. Ways to avoid corneal transplantation rejection 

The risk for complications after corneal surgery varies from one individual to another, depending on a variety of factors. Some of the factors that are: 

  • Age
  • Pre-existing medical conditions
  • Other existing eye problems
  • Original reason for the cornea transplantation

To help avoid corneal transplantation rejection, it’s important to follow all post-surgery instructions after surgery. Ask your eye doctor about your own risks for cornea transplantation.

Looking for an eye hospital for cornea surgery? 

Visit Disha Eye Hospitals for cornea-related problems. We have a dynamic team of cornea subspecialty ophthalmologists who are skilled in the latest medical and surgical care of patients with corneal diseases. We offer corneal transplantation and our doctors perform modern lamellar techniques such as DSEK, DMEK and DALK. We also have a microbiology lab to help us manage any case of corneal or surface infections.

We are among the few eye hospitals in West Bengal to have its own eye bank. The eye bank is located at our Barrackpore Branch.  Book an appointment at your nearest branch . 

Posted on

List of precautions to take after LASIK eye surgery

cataract surgery
LASIK is one of the most commonly performed surgeries to treat refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and  astigmatism. The surgery is done to reshape the outer clear layer of the eye, thus offering improved eye vision. It reduces dependence on eye glasses and contact lenses. Although the recovery time for LASIK surgery is fairly quick, as with any surgery, you should always follow your eye surgeon’s instructions to avoid complications. 

one of the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata, here we share with you precautions to take LASIK surgery:

Give proper rest to the eyes: Taking a nap after the surgery can offer some rest to the eyes. Sleeping will help in relieving discomfort and pain. 

Take the prescribed medicines: You will be prescribed some antibiotic eye drops to avoid eye infections and eye irritation.  Take the eye drops as per the instructions to prevent complications.  Leave a gap of five minutes between two medications.

Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes for a few days: During the surgical process of LASIK surgery, the hinged flap of the eye is folded backward for better access to the cornea. Once the surgery is done it is repositioned again without suturing. Rubbing your eyes too vigorously may dislodge the cornea flap, leading to complications. 

Wear eye-shield for the recommended days: It is advisable to wear the eye shield or plastic shield provided by the eye hospital. Wear it for 3 to 4 nights. This will prevent accidental rubbing of the eyes while you are sleeping. 

Wear sun-protection glasses: It is advisable to wear dark-coloured UV-protection eyeglasses whenever you step out of the house. UV radiation might lead to scarring and regression of the eye. 

Avoid wearing cosmetics:: It is best to not use face or eye cosmetics. Wearing cosmetics can increase the chances of eye infection. 

Avoid strenuous activities: Certain strenuous activities such as weightlifting and contact sports can put pressure on the eyes and thus, must be avoided. Also avoid any activity where you are at risk of getting hit in the eyes, which would complicate the recovery.

Avoid showers: Although you can bathe within 24 hours of your LASIK surgery, ensure that the running water should not get into the eyes for at least one week. For this, avoid showers and shampooing your hair at least for a week or so.

Avoid smoky and dusty environments: Being in smoky or dusty environments can irritate the eyes and make you want to rub them. Avoid outdoor areas where there is a lot of dust, dirt or smoke.

Avoid swimming: After LASIK, avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, and rivers for at least a week. Water-borne bacteria can cause eye infection.

If you are in Kolkata and searching for eye surgeons near me or best eye surgeon near me online, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. Our team of experienced and well-qualified eye specialists are well-versed in the latest medical technologies. Visit the nearest branch to consult our LASIK eye surgeon and other eye specialists. 

Posted on

What to expect at your first retina appointment?

eye specialist in Kolkata
If you are seeing a retinal specialist for the first time, you may not know what to expect. The best way to get the most out of your retinal consultation is to come prepared. A retina specialist specialises in the treatment of conditions and diseases affecting the retina. Some of the common diseases treated by a retina specialist are:

  • Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Retinal detachment
  • Macular hole/pucker

As a leading eye hospital in West Bengal, we share with you useful insights on what you can expect at your first retina appointment:

A retina exam is more extensive than a routine eye exam: 

A retinal eye exam is more comprehensive than a routine eye exam.  Your initial appointment with a retina specialist may take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the diagnostic tests recommended. 
Questions you will be asked 

Just like any other eye exam, you will be asked about:

  •  Medical history 
  •  Symptoms you are experiencing
  • Any medications that you are taking  

Tests that are done before the appointment: 

Some of the common tests that will be done include: 

  • Pupil dilation test: This test is performed to make the pupils large so that the retinal specialist can examine the optic nerve and retina. 

While your eyes are dilated, the retinal specialist may order specialised tests such as: 

  • Optical Coherence Tomography or OCT
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Fundus Photography
  • Fundus Autofluorescence Imaging

What to bring to your appointment with a retina specialist:

When you visit a retina specialist for an appointment, it is important to bring along  important documents. 

  • If you have had any major surgery, bring the discharge summary and other hospital documents. 
  • It is also helpful to bring documents that has information about your family’s medical history. 
  • In addition, be sure to bring along the name and contact information of the referring doctor, as well as the reason for referral. 
  • Bring a complete list of all medications you are currently taking. 

How to prepare for a retinal eye exam? 

Here are a few things you can do to prepare for a retinal exam: 

  • It’s important to bring your glasses or contact lenses with you to your eye doctor appointment. This will help the retina specialist get an accurate measure of your prescription. 
  • After pupil dilation, you will not be able to drive back home as your vision will be blurry.  Have someone to drive you home. 
  • Bring along a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare when you are heading back home.

What will happen during the exam? 

By shining a light into your eye, the retina specialist can get a clear view of the back of the eye. This allows your retina specialist to look for any signs of damage or disease. The retina specialist uses one or more of these techniques for viewing your eye condition:

  • Direct examination: The direct examination is performed with an ophthalmoscope, which allows the doctor to shine a beam of light through the pupil to get a clear view of the back of the eye.
  • Indirect examination: The indirect examination, also known as indirect ophthalmoscopy, uses a condensing lens and a bright light to provide a more detailed look at the retina and other structures inside the eye.
  • Slit-lamp exam: A slit-lamp exam is often performed to get an even closer look at the back of the eye. This exam uses a special lens and a beam of light to provide a clear, three-dimensional view of the eye. 

Note: Usually, the retinal exam takes about 10 minutes, but you will be in the eye hospital for hours. It is because pupil dilation needs some time.

Looking for a retina specialist? 

If you live in West Bengal and are looking for a “retina specialist near me” online, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have some of the best retina specialists who can help you choose the right treatment option. Call us to book an appointment at the nearest branch.

Posted on

What are some common causes of light sensitivity?


Photophobia or light sensitivity is a medical condition in which bright light hurts the eyes. It’s an eye condition associated with various medical conditions such as migraine, meningitis and dry eyes. Its symptoms might range from minor irritation to extreme pain. In mild cases, people might squint in bright light or experience a minor headache. Although anyone can develop light sensitivity, people with lighter eye colour are at higher risk of photophobia. Dark eyes have more pigment to protect the eyes against light sensitivity. Some of our best eye specialist in Kolkata share common causes of light sensitivity: 

  1. Dry eyes:  One of the most common causes of photophobia is dry eyes.  Dry eyes could be due to ageing or due to changes in hormones. Diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome and Parkinson’s disease can also lead to dry eyes. It can be a side effect of medication such as antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs, and more. 

Treatment of dry eyes can include medications that may lead to light sensitivity. Some of the symptoms of dry eye are:

  •  Light sensitivity 
  • Red-itchy eyes
  • Eye pain
  • Blurred vision
  • Constant feeling of something in the eyes 

    Migraine: Migraine is a neurological condition that causes severe headaches. In migraine, light could trigger the pain and worsen the headache. Some of the other triggering causes include hormonal changes, stress, and anxiety. Sometimes alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and processed food can also act as a trigger for light for migraine and associated light sensitivity. Some of the symptoms of migraine include:

  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Numbness in the body 

    Eye Strain: Eye Strain occurs when the eyes get tired from intense use. It can be due to over-focusing the eyes on one particular thing which leads to exhaustion of the eyes. For instance, driving and using a computer for a long time can lead to eye strain. Digital eye strain is quite common among people. Generally, the symptoms of eye strain go away with little rest to the eyes. For this, simply shut the eyes in between the task or use gel eye masks to get a little relief. Taking frequent breaks can also help. You can reduce computer glare by using a matte screen filter.

Here are a few symptoms of eye strains:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry vision
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Sore eyes 

    Blepharitis: Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation occurs when the oil glands in eyelids are clogged. This can happen due to use of eye makeup. Psoriasis, allergies, bacteria and tiny insects can also cause blepharitis. Eyelid inflammation should ideally be treated by an eye specialist.  Makeup should not be applied on the affected eye as it may worsen the situation. Here are a few symptoms of blepharitis:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Swollen- itchy eyelids
  • Dandruff-like flakes on the eyelids
  • Abnormal growth of eyelashes or falls out easily

Conjunctivitis (pink eyes): Conjunctivitis can be due to viral and bacterial infection or could be due to some allergy leading to reddish-pink inflammatory eyes. It is highly contagious. For the treatment of conjunctivitis, the eye specialist can prescribe some eye drops and antibiotics. Here are a few symptoms of conjunctivitis:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Constant feeling of something in the eyes
  • Watery discharge form the eyes
  • Red inflammatory eyes

Keratitis (cornea infection): It is the inflammation of the cornea. It can be due to viral and bacterial infection, due to an eye injury, or wearing contact lenses for too long. The eye specialist may recommend some antibiotics and ask to not wear contact lenses for some time. Symptoms of keratitis include:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Eye pain with redness
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty in opening your eyes 

    Corneal abrasion: Corneal Abrasion can be quite painful. They can range from a minor superficial scratch to major corneal abrasion and need immediate medical attention. It can develop due to any foreign particle such as dirt or sand particles in the eye. Symptoms of corneal abrasion are:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry vision
  • Redness
  • Eye discharge
  • Constant feeling of something in the eyes

Scleritis: It is a deep eye pain that extends to the face. Mainly people with autoimmune disorders are more likely to have scleritis. For this, an eye specialist should be immediately consulted. Here are a few symptoms of scleritis:

  • Sensitivity to lights
  • Severe pain in both the eyes
  • Eye inflammation
  • Tearing 

    Encephalitis or meningitis: It is the inflammation of the brain tissues. It can be due to viruses, bacteria, or fungi. In some cases, both encephalitis and meningitis can occur at the same time. In mild cases, a headache and light sensitivity can be the symptoms. But in severe cases, it can be fatal. It is advisable to consult the doctor immediately. Here are a few symptoms:

  • Sensitivity to light and sound
  • Headache
  • Confusion 
  • Neck stiffness
  • Seizure

Our best eye specialists in Kolkata suggest the following tips to prevent photophobia: 

  • Those suffering from migraine should avoid triggers such as loud noises,  harsh light and certain foods. This can help reduce the chances of migraine attacks. 
  • Avoid contact with people having meningitis, wash hands regularly, and get immunisation for bacterial meningitis. 
  • Get a vaccination for encephalitis. 

Looking for the best eye specialist in Kolkata? 

We, at Disha Eye Hospitals, provide comprehensive ophthalmology care. Our skilled and dedicated eye specialists offer a wide range of eye care services to protect your vision. From regular eye checkups to cataract treatment, from LASIK to glaucoma treatment, we are a one-stop destination for all eye-related issues. Find the nearest branch to book an appointment.